

10 Most Common Freight Scam Tactics
Scammers often use fake details to trick you into paying for non-existent services. Be wary of:

1. Deceptive Low Price Offers
Scammers often lure businesses with unusually low shipping rates. After securing the payment, they either disappear or add hidden charges. Always request a detailed written quote and verify the company’s credentials before committing.
2. Shipment Delays for Extra Charges
Some fraudulent companies intentionally delay cargo and demand additional fees for “expedited delivery” or storage. To avoid this, closely monitor your shipments and work with trustworthy shipping companies.
3. Withholding the Bill of Lading
Without a Bill of Lading, you cannot claim your shipment. Some scammers request extra payments to release this critical document. Ensure your freight forwarder is legitimate to avoid this situation.
4. Cargo Theft
Cargo theft is a serious scam where fraudsters hijack your shipment, posing as legitimate freight forwarders. Always verify the company’s legitimacy by checking for a physical address, insurance, and online reviews.
5. Fake Freight Forwarders
Fraudulent freight forwarders often operate without proper licenses or insurance. Before working with any company, confirm that they are registered and have the necessary credentials.
6. Unlicensed Operators
Unlicensed or unregistered businesses pose a serious risk. Always verify that your freight forwarder is licensed with relevant authorities to avoid potential losses.
7. Opaque Operations
Some scammers operate in secrecy, avoiding transparency about their processes and fees. A legitimate forwarder will be open about their operations and provide clear communication.
8. Email Payment Frauds
Beware of fraudulent emails asking for wire transfers. These emails may appear to be from legitimate companies but are often scams. Always confirm payment requests via trusted communication channels before proceeding.
9. Lack of Online Presence
If a company has no reviews on reputable platforms like Google or Trustpilot, it’s a red flag. A lack of online reviews or no record of the company can indicate a potential scam.
10. Fake Websites and Imposter Freight Companies
Scammers often create fake shipping companies or websites that mimic legitimate businesses. Always cross-check the company’s registration details and reviews to ensure they are not on any list of fake shipping companies.
How to avoid Freight Scams

Being proactive is the best way to protect yourself from freight scams. Here are some practical steps to avoid falling victim:
- Research the Company: Always research the freight forwarder before engaging their services. Look for online reviews, such as those on Google, Trustpilot, or other review platforms. If the company has no reviews or a history of complaints, it’s best to avoid them.
- Check for Licensing and Insurance: Legitimate freight forwarders should be properly licensed and insured. If they cannot provide proof of these, it’s a major red flag.
- Request Written Contracts: Always ensure that you have a written contract detailing the shipping terms, costs, and the timeline for delivery. This protects you from hidden charges or false claims.
- Insure Your Shipments: Especially when shipping valuable goods, having insurance is essential. This ensures that even if something goes wrong, your cargo is protected.
- Stay Skeptical of Low Rates: If a shipping quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Compare rates from multiple sources and be wary of significantly lower offers.
- Verify Payment Requests: Be cautious of any email requests for payment. Always confirm directly with the shipping company using their verified contact information. Fake payment requests are a common scam tactic.
- Look for a Physical Address: A legitimate freight company will have a physical office address. If the company only lists a P.O. Box or lacks location details, it’s best to avoid them.
- Check Trustworthy Sources: Consult industry databases, such as the list of fake shipping companies or those flagged for fraudulent practices, to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable entity.
Common Freight Scams to Avoid
There are many types of freight scams that target businesses. Here are some of the most common:
- Scammer Quotes: Scammers offer low quotes to attract businesses but later increase the price with hidden fees or disappear after receiving payment.
- Bogus Freight Forwarders: These fraudsters operate under fake names or use forged documents to appear legitimate. They may steal your cargo or fail to deliver on their promises.
- Email Fraud: Fake emails from supposed shipping companies may request payments for services not rendered. Always verify any payment requests and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Identifying Fake Shipping Companies
Fake shipping companies often leave behind a trail of warning signs. To protect yourself, keep an eye out for the following red flags:
- No Online Reviews: A lack of reviews or testimonials on platforms like Google and Trustpilot should raise suspicion.
- No Physical Address: Legitimate shipping companies will have a verifiable physical address. Be cautious of companies that only provide an email or P.O. Box.
- Unlicensed Companies: Always check that the company is licensed with the relevant authorities. An unlicensed freight forwarder presents a significant risk.
- Unclear Payment Terms: If the payment terms are vague or the company pressures you to pay upfront without providing clear documentation, it’s likely a scam.
To see if a company has been flagged as a scam, consult a list of fake shipping companies or check for complaints with industry watchdogs.
What to Do If You Encounter a Freight Scam
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a freight scam, take immediate action:
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Report the Scam: Contact relevant authorities and report the scam. This helps prevent others from falling victim.
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Contact Your Payment Provider: If you’ve made a payment by credit card, contact your provider to see if you can reverse the transaction.
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Seek Legal Advice: If necessary, consult a lawyer to explore your options for legal action against the scammer.
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Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about a deal or shipping service, it’s better to walk away. Scammers often rely on creating a sense of urgency, so take your time to verify details before proceeding.
Conclusion
The freight forwarding industry is essential for global trade, but it’s also a target for scammers. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can protect your business from freight scams. Always choose licensed, transparent, and well-reviewed freight forwarders to ensure your shipments are safe and timely.
If you’re concerned about shipping fraud or need a reliable freight forwarder, contact Super International Shipping for trusted services. Our team ensures secure and cost-effective shipping solutions, helping you avoid scams and delays.